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Loksatta calls for a movement to bring Justice Santosh Hegde back to office: Organises protest at Mahatma Gandhi statue on Saturday (26th June) morning at 9 AM

The resignation of the Hon'ble Lokayukta Shri Santosh Hegde is a low point for governance in the state. His action, coming after many months of repeatedly urging the government to give his office more powers, and to take action against various offenders he has identified, is a blackmark against the political leadership of the BJP, as well as the Congress and JD(S), all of whom have paid only lip service to the Lokayukta's efforts. It is particularly unfortunate that the Government has failed to protect officials of the Lokayukta's office from motivated legal and other attacks.

Even at this late hour, the Government can take corrective action, and restore public confidence that the much-needed battle against corruption in public service will be taken up seriously. There are three steps the government needs to take seriously, and immediately.

Posting on behalf of Prof Gowda

Dear fellow citizen,

As you know, the Karnataka Lok Ayukta, Justice Santosh Hegde, has resigned in protest against the state government’s efforts to scuttle the Lok Ayukta’s anti-corruption drives. As concerned citizens we cannot just sit back and watch as a crusader against corruption gives up the fight.

Instead, we must urge Justice Hegde to withdraw his resignation. We must show him that the people of Karnataka are together with him in his battles. We must raise our collective voice and push the state government to change its stance and punish the corrupt. We must launch a drive to give the institution of the Lok Ayukta more powers and more teeth.

Let's make a start by coming together for a candle-light protest rally on June 24, 2010 at 7 pm at the Mahatma Gandhi statue. This is open to all people and organizations interested in good governance.

Spread the word. Then come, join hands in the fight against corruption!

Sincerely,

Rajeev Gowda